Set in beautiful countryside, surrounded by a picturesque moat, the 14th century Bodiam Castle offers a romantic glimpse of medieval splendour.

And this weekend that picture will be brought to life, with mounted knights battling it out in jousting tournaments, costumed castle characters walking the grounds, wandering minstrels performing traditional music, and troops going head to head in close combat fighting.

Visitors to the Medieval Weekend can also take part in the jousting rail, an opportunity to train as knights would have done in 14th century England, preparing for battle by trying on armour and painting their own shield.

The Hawking Centre will hold birds of prey displays, and there will be hands-on activities for the whole family on the castle green including archery and a paintball cannon. Refreshments will also be available from the barbecue and beer tent.

The Medieval Weekend takes place at the castle near Robertsbridge in East Sussex on Saturday, August 10 and Sunday, August 11 from 10.30am to 5pm.

Admission to the event and castle is £17.90 for adults, £8.95 for children and £46.50 for a family.

Call 0844 249 1895 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle

Watch from the royal box

It is also jousting season at Hever Castle, near Tonbridge.

Spectators will be treated in an exciting display of action, daredevil stunts, falls and fights as the Knights of Royal England bring the medieval sport to life in a tournament this weekend.

Every day from Friday, August 9, to Sunday, August 11, knights on horseback will await the arrival of the king and queen from the castle at 1.45pm.

The king will greet visitors and invite all to the jousting area at Pokeridge Meadow, where the tournament will start at about 2.15pm.

Visitors can enjoy watching the jousting tournament in covered seating for a charge of £1 per seat, or £1.50 in the Queen's Box.

The gardens open at 10.30am and the castle opens at noon, with the final exit at 6pm.

Admission to both is £15 for adults, £12.50 for senior citizens, £8.50 for children aged five to 15, and £38.50 for a family.

Call 01732 865224 or visit www.hevercastle.co.uk